Gluten Intolerance

DID YOU KNOW?

Gluten injures the lining of the small intestine, resulting in

weight loss, bloating, gas, diarrhea, cramps

or vitamin and mineral deficiency.

Gluten intolerance, or celiac disease, comes when you have a problem with digesting gluten. Gluten intolerance can lead to osteoporosis and iron deficiency. It can also raise your risk of getting lymphoma.

Gluten intolerance can also slow growth and weaken bones in children. If you have celiac disease, ingesting gluten harms your immune system and small intestine. This makes it hard for your body to absorb nutrients that keep you living a healthy life.

Gluten is a type of protein that is found in:

* Bread

* Pasta

* Flour

Gluten comes from:

* Wheat

* Barley

* Rye

To check if a particular food contains gluten just read the ingredients.

What Are The Symptoms Of Gluten Intolerance?

The symptoms of celiac disease include the following:

* Gas and bloating.

* Changes in bowel movements.

* Feeling extremely tired

* Feeling weak

* Rapid weight loss

* Vomiting after consuming products containing gluten

.

What causes Gluten Intolerance?

Doctors don't really know the cause of gluten intolerance.

It is speculated, however, that viruses or infections can trigger changes in your immune system that can lead to celiac disease. It is also believed that gluten intolerance may be genetic, so if someone in your family is gluten intolerant and you are experiencing the symptoms listed above, there is a good chance you may have gluten intolerance as well.

What Can You Eat?

If you are gluten intolerant you obviously need to avoid all foods that contain gluten. Do not eat any foods made with wheat, rye, or barley. Don't drink any beer or ale. If you are unsure whether or not you can eat or drink something, just check the ingredients. If you feel that gluten intolerance is adversely affecting your health a simple change in your diet will help you feel better.

You CAN eat:

* Eggs

* Meat

* Fish

* Fruit

* Vegetables

* Flours and starches made from rice

* Corn

* Buckwheat

* Potatoes

* Most soy products

At Diet Health and Fitness we understand that to live gluten free requires a lifestyle change, but it doesn't mean you can't be just as happy as everyone else. You simply need to educate yourself on what you can and can't include in your diet and stick to it.